The latest buzzword in the tech industry is undoubtedly software-defined networking. SDNs are touted as being able to extend virtual LANs, create security zones as well as establish Bring Your Own Device policies.

All of which makes Cisco a tad nervous. Some believe that a shift in emphasis from hardware to a software overlay would diminish Cisco's clout. But Cisco is trying to get out ahead of the curve with its Cisco ONE (Open Network Environment) architecture that would allow programmability into its gear.